I want something to use for coastal use with the family, but something capable of cross channel/cruising at a later stage.

Current top of my list is Ribcraft 585 (Hi Jason !!!), with either 115 or 140ish 4 stroke.

I like the look of the "Morgan" 585 on the Ribcraft gallery - would this be a good set up ?

Any advice on engines appreciated - are the Suzuki's any good ?

Would be interested to hear from any experienced Ribsters in East Anglia who wouldn't mind taking a rookie under their wing ! (I've done Level 2, & will probably do 7 day intensive course on IOW with Dave Robson @ Aquapower, will also be joining BIBOA)

Big A
Can't reply to your question re.first rib but just to let you know I am a ribster living in Essex. You'd be welcome to join me for some blasts around the estuaries down here if you're at a loose end, although you may find a 4.0m rib and 30hp a bit tame! I like the sound of that 7 day course- how much is it?

The only comment I have for you is to go for the 140 over the 115.
I didn't take into account the weight difference of a 4-stroke
over a two stroke when I chose my 90 (175kg vs 100kg approx) and I find the 5.8m is slightly underpowered at times.

The Cobra hull was rated up to 130 or so HP, but 90 was recommended. If I was to do it over, I'd have gone for a bigger engine.